Garlic scapes are the curled flower that is at the top of a garlic plant. They can be found everywhere in the spring time; at farmer’s markets, CSAs (community supported agriculture shares), local markets, basically anywhere you can find fresh veggies. You can use these lovely veggies to make an easy, fragrant pesto that can be spread all over your favorite foods bread, crackers, as a pasta sauce, fish marinade, or even as a substitute for garlic, onion, or scallions.
Health Benefits
We all know garlic for its strong smell, but do you know the benefits of eating garlic and braving its odor? Garlic contains an important chemical compound called allicin; it is a therapeutic ingredient packed with medicinal properties. Allicin contains sulfur, the element that gives garlic its particular odor and savoriness. It helps to prevent and fight heart ailments, coughs, the common cold, and lowers blood pressure. It also boosts the effectiveness of digestion and helps to regulate insulin levels.
Nutrition
Per Serving:
108 calories
8.8 g fat
5.6 g carbohydrates
2.4 g protein
3 mg cholesterol
58 mg sodium
Ingredients
cup garlic scapes – cut into 1" pieces: 1
cup fresh basil leaves: 1/2
cup cashews: 1/3
cup extra virgin olive oil: 1/2
cup grated parmesan cheese: 1/2
tsp lemon juice: 1/2
Sea salt and pepper to taste
How To Make Garlic Scape Pesto
- Process the garlic scapes and basil for 30 seconds in a food processor.
- Add the nuts and process for another 30 seconds.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil as you continue to run the food processor.
- Add the parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Mix and taste; adjust the salt and pepper as desired.
- Pour the pesto over fresh homemade pasta.
- Serve and enjoy!
Trivia
Garlic has historically been used to ward off evil spirits in different cultures around the world.